Kidnappers who took a star greyhound from his kennel demanded a ransom, the trainer has revealed.

Members of a criminal drugs gang are suspected of being involved in the kidnap of the best racing greyhound in the country, who was taken from kennels of a leading trainer in Golden, Co Tipperary.

The exciting Clares Rocket is a short-priced favourite to land the €80,000 winner’s cheque in next weekend’s final of the Con and Annie Kirby Memorial at Limerick stadium following a brilliant run in Saturday night’s semi-finals.

Cromac Belle set the pace in the semi-finals of the Gain Dog Foods Christmas Oaks on Saturday night at Shelbourne Park.